Mangrove's Enormous Flatty Takes Out The Comp

Hook, Line, and Sinker: The 2026 Manning Point Fishing Classic Wrap-Up

What a weekend! The sun was out (when it wasn't raining), the tides were right (except for when they weren't), and the atmosphere at Manning Point was nothing short of electric for the 2026 Fishing Classic. From the high-stakes weigh-ins to the legendary antics back at camp, this year’s event proved once again why it’s the crown jewel of the fishing calendar.

Whether you were there for the fish or the "refreshments," one thing is for certain: the 2026 chapter will be talked about for years to come.

Pêcheur de Respect Elevé (The Champion)

An extra medium congratulations to Mangrove Mike, who etched his name into the history books as the second Triple Champion by landing a monster 74cm(or 75cm) Flathead. It was a masterclass in patience and skill that silenced the critics and secured him the top spot on the podium.

Premier Groupe de Pêche

Success on the water is a team sport, and Andchovy proved to be the vessel of destiny this year. Expertly skippered and perfectly positioned, the Andchovy crew (Captain Bluering and Sailfin) provided the platform for greatness, navigating their way to a well-deserved team victory and a 69cm monster that would have won the comp most years.

Buveur de Haute Estime (The Dougie)

While the fishing is the main event, the Manning Point Classic is defined by the legends made off the hook.

In perhaps the most statistically probable feat of the weekend, Jerkbait Jake—under the questionable yet effective command of Admiral Lucky—took out "The Dougie."

Jake’s "training" regimen was grueling, reportedly consuming roughly 30% of the entire annual Great Northern Beer production. When the beer ran low, he showed true grit by pivoting to a sophisticated blend of Bloodworm’s Jumping Goat and Andchovy’s Limoncello. A truly digestive-defying performance!

Rose Pêcheur de peu D'estime (Order of the Pink Rod)

Despite his best efforts to offload the neon-pink curse, BigJig was caught holding the rod when it mattered most (or least, depending on who you ask). He now carries the mantle of the Pink Rod—a neon reminder that in fishing, timing is everything, and BigJig’s timing was... well, legendary for all the wrong reasons. Better luck next year, mate!

Jeune Pêcheur de peu D'estime (Rookie of The Year)

The future of the Classic looks bright. In a nail-biting, three-way race for the title, Filet emerged victorious as the 2026 Rookie of the Year. While his fishing prowess is growing, it was his performance on the tools that sealed the deal—cooking the steaks to absolute perfection and winning over the hearts (and stomachs) of the entire camp.

The Recruiter

BigJig won the inaugural (and possibly singular) Recruiter award, in recognition of the thousand or so rookies he has birthed.

 

 

A huge thank you to everyone who made the 2026 Manning Point Fishing Classic such a success. Pack your gear, rest your livers, and we’ll see you back on the water next year!

 

Can't forget to thank the sponsors for this year.

Massive thanks to our 2026 sponsors: 

 

Sotcom, for all your Sound or Telecommunications Solutions

Arlam, for the land that needs to be cleared.

RehabCo, Your trusted local partner in workplace rehabilitation and disability services.

Swampman Simo

Member Jungle - Online Membership System, Making Membership Easy

AusTiger Conservation - for your feral pest management solutions

AND our Major Sponsor and Event Organiser, Telligence (the best website platform in the world) ,